Journey of an Orthopaedic Surgical Resident and Runner

Sia: Pre-Ultramarathon Interview

Sia Chuan Han, who goes with the nick name “Sia” was the MR25 2010 Ultramarathon Champion. Here is an email you interview with him.

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Your last race was the Singapore marathon where you did 3:22.Tell us more about it.

I did not have a very good run as I wanted to break 3:20. However, i had a good experience though and I am looking forward to my next race!

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What do you think went wrong?

As usual, I make a common mistake which most runners do.starting too fast at the beginning.i was supposed to run at 4.45 pace.instead I ran 4.30 for about 11km. Then I up my pace when Thow wee came from behind n followed him for some distance n died off later.if I were to start slower for first half then might be able to do better at the second stage.

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You are running the MR25 ultra marathon 2 weeks later. You are the defending champion. How is your preparation?

I took a 1 wk break after sc. I think I am stronger at longer distance cause it’s going at a slower pace. I am more comfortable with it. Quite difficult to prepare for ultra because of time constraint. Just have to make sure that I rest and eat well for the race. Anyway there’s nothing much that I can do now especially the race is only 2 weeks after sc, as compared to the usual 3 weeks (because last Sunday for this year is a Christmas day)

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What is your current training schedule like?

I train twice a day for 6 days. Doing mostly easy run and long run.i will review my training program after the ultra for next year.

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Is there a specific strategy that you are using for the ultra?

No. Just have to plan the race carefully and hydrate along the way.

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What’s your target?

Last year I was targeting to do 10 laps. I will try again this year, with proper fuel. However it’s not easy because of the tough terrain.

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10 questions with Mr Sia:

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1. What’s your longest run this season?

38km on training followed by standard chartered marathon

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2. What is your favourite gel?

no particular one.but have been using SIS gel during all races

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3. Do you listen to music when you run?

Tried a few times during training but not on races yet. Actually it feels good because it hides the breathing

sound 🙂

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4. What is your favourite shoe?

No particular one.is currently using nike,asics,new balance

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5. What is your current training watch?

Gamin forerunner 610

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6. Whats your favourite workout?

I actually don’t like workout. But in order to improve,I have to do it.don’t have a specific one.

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7. Do you like stretching?

I don’t stretch during normal runs. Sometimes after a long run, I will just do a few.

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8. Are you a morning or evening runner?

Both. Because I run in the morning and evening. I feel good especially after a morning run

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9. What’s your favourite running route?

Anywhere and everywhere.

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10. Why do you like to run?

It’s a sport which can exercise the whole body and having a peacefully time away from the stressful lifestyle during the process.very easy to pick up with just a pair of running shoe and any attire.